Introduction to Cats: What the Musical Is About
Cats is a musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber, based on Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats by T.S. Eliot. It presents a tribe of Jellicle cats deciding which one will ascend to the Heaviside Layer, with each cat revealing a distinct personality through song and dance. The show is celebrated for its iconic music, imaginative staging, and pioneering use of dance-driven storytelling.
Background and Development of Cats
Origins of the Story
The musical draws its source material from T.S. Eliot’s 1939 poetry collection Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats. Eliot’s whimsical verses about feline characters provided the foundation for a theatrical exploration of rituals, memory, and renewal, allowing Lloyd Webber and director Trevor Nunn to craft a cohesive theatrical world from disparate poems.
Creative Team and Production History
Andrew Lloyd Webber composed the score, with lyrics by Trevor Duncan, and production design by John Napier. The original London production opened in 1981, followed by Broadway in 1982, setting records for ticket sales and longevity. Key milestones include the 1998 filmed concert, which brought the show to global audiences and shaped its enduring reputation.
Signature Songs and Musical Highlights
The score features instantly recognizable songs that define the show’s tone and remain staples of popular music. These compositions span pop, rock, and theatrical styles, anchoring each character in distinct musical identities that audiences recognize worldwide.
Key Tracks and Their Role
- “Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats” — introduces the tribe and ritual.
- “Memory” — the emotional centerpiece exploring past glory and hope.
- “The Rum Tum Tugger” — a charismatic, rebellious showcase.
- “Mr. Mistoffelees” — a playful, virtuosic number.
- “Macavity” — a theatrical villain song with suspenseful choreography.
Global Impact and Cultural Influence
Cats became one of the most commercially successful musicals in history, with productions in multiple languages across continents. It redefined commercial musical theatre, proving that a non-linear, movement-centric show could sustain long-term box office interest and spawn continuous revivals.
Box Office and Records
| Record Type | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Broadway Gross | Over $1 billion in revenue | Industry reports |
| Longest Run | Over 7,000 performances on Broadway | Playbill and IBDB |
| Global Productions | Hundreds of productions in multiple languages | Licensing data |
Staging, Design, and Choreography
The visual identity of Cats is as significant as its music. Elaborate costumes, abstract sets, and innovative lighting create a fluid, dreamlike environment. Choreography fuses contemporary dance, ballet, and character movement to convey feline mannerisms without relying on literal animal mimicry.
Design Elements
- Costumes: Textured, feline-inspired fabrics and silhouettes.
- Lighting: Sharp contrasts and gobo patterns to evoke night and cityscapes.
- Choreography: Signature steps for each cat reflecting personality and status.
Criticism, Revisions, and Reinterpretations
Throughout its run, Cats has faced critiques concerning its narrative clarity and early production choices. Subsequent revivals addressed these by refining staging, vocal arrangements, and character focus, demonstrating the show’s flexibility and capacity for reinterpretation.
Notable Revivals and Changes
- 2016 Broadway revival: Updated sets and lighting with revised orchestrations.
- 2023 London repurpose: Refocused storytelling and audience connection.
- Stage-to-screen: The 1998 filmed concert preserved choreography for new audiences.
Enduring Legacy and Educational Influence
Cats remains a reference point for discussions of theatrical innovation and longevity. Many theatre professionals credit it with expanding musical theatre demographics, encouraging stylistic risk-taking, and proving that conceptual originality can coexist with mass appeal.
Takeaways for Practitioners
- Prioritize choreography as a narrative device, not spectacle.
- Balance experimental staging with vocal clarity.
- Engage audiences through ritualistic structure and emotional peaks.
Conclusion
As an evergreen musical, Cats maintains relevance through its recognizable score, adaptable staging, and cultural footprint. Understanding its background, key songs, design choices, and impact provides insight into why it continues to be revived and studied across generations of theatre artists and audiences.